Two “Right to Work” (RTW) bills have reemerged in Maine and New Hampshire, potentially undermining the strength of labor unions that protect workers’ wages, benefits, and rights.  In Maine, the Legislature will hold a public hearing on Monday, February 12, on a bill that aims to weaken collective bargaining. Meanwhile, across the border, New Hampshire lawmakers are set to vote on a similar measure on Tuesday, February 13.

Maine “Right to Work” Bill – (LD187)

Members of IBEW Local 1837 at WGME-TV (CBS 13) gathered near the television station in Portland in early December for an informational picket. The members, which include Photographers, News Producers, Directors, News Editors, Assignment Editors, Operating Technicians, Maintenance Engineers, and Creative Producers, are fighting for better pay and working conditions in their contract negotiations with Sinclair Broadcast Group.

IBEW Local 1837 members at Versant ratified a 3-year collective bargaining agreement in early July after federal mediation was brought in to help the Union and the Company bridge remaining gaps during negotiations. The contract includes significant improvements to wages, benefits, working conditions, and a key victory in protecting job security.

All classifications will see general wage increases of 4% in 2025, 3% in 2026, and 3% in 2027. In addition, several positions will see market adjustments.

IBEW Local 1837 member Greg Middleton, a first-class lineworker at Versant Power, has been selected as the 2024 Shop Steward of the Year by a special committee at the Maine AFL-CIO. Middleton received his award at the upcoming COPE Convention Awards Banquet on Thursday, June 27, in Auburn. He was nominated for the award by members of IBEW Local 1837.

There’s a familiar and friendly face serving constituents in Augusta. South Portland voters elected IBEW Local 1837 member Matthew Beck to represent them in the Maine House of Representatives for District 122.